FIFA Is Testing a New Rule to Speed Up Play During Injuries

FIFA has introduced a new rule proposal requiring any player who receives on-field medical treatment to leave the pitch for two minutes. According to Calcio e Finanza, the initiative will be tested at the Arab Cup, which takes place in Qatar from December 1 to 18.

Roberto Grassi, FIFA’s Head of Youth Tournaments, said at a press conference in Paris that a final decision on introducing the rule has not yet been made. He explained that once the tournament ends, referees will review all aspects of the experiment before any official ruling is taken. Grassi noted that FIFA is testing, analyzing, monitoring reactions, and consulting with its partners before approving possible changes, and that the Arab Cup is seen as an appropriate environment for such trials.

Pierluigi Collina, Chairman of the FIFA Referees Committee, told Al Kass TV that the aim of the new rule is to speed up the game.

He added that the rule would apply in all situations except when the injured player’s opponent receives a yellow or red card. Injuries to goalkeepers will also be exempt, as teams cannot continue without one.

Hani Ballan, Deputy Chairman of the FIFA Referees Committee, added that the procedure is also intended to reduce cases of simulation. He explained that when the game is stopped, the referee will ask the player whether medical intervention is required or if he can continue, which should reduce unnecessary delays and allow play to resume more quickly.

Earlier, Gambling Park reported on FIFA’s decision to expel Atlético San Cristóbal from the Dominican league over match-fixing violations.